We’re only just entering cold and flu season. For many people this means that it is time to stock up on more disinfecting wipes, hand sanitizer, and other disinfecting tools than you already have this year. If you have Invisalign, this means that you’ll have to be especially careful when you’re handling your aligners so you don’t get sick. Continue reading to learn some useful tips so you can continue on a path towards a straighter smile without having to spend a week in bed.
Wash Your Hands!
This is an obvious one, but by washing your hands frequently throughout the day, you can prevent yourself from falling ill. Before you take your aligners out and before you put them back in, remember to always give your hands a wash. This way, you may be able to keep yourself from being under the weather for a week or two.
Clean Your Workspace
Did you know that the average desk is covered in up to 400 times more germs that most toilet seats? Yuck! This certainly isn’t a place that you want to have your hands before handling your aligners. Just think about all of the other surfaces you touch throughout the day. Imagine how many germs are on the screen of your smartphone. Remember to disinfect your desk and other areas that you touch frequently so you aren’t picking up and transferring germs to your clear aligners and into your mouth.
Sanitize Your Aligners and Accessories
You certainly don’t want your aligners to be covered in bacteria or viruses. It’s a good idea to run your Invisalign case through the dishwasher or handwash it thoroughly. This is where saliva and moisture collect so it truly is a great place for germs to thrive. Whenever you brush your teeth, give your aligners a quick brush too. You also want to soak your trays once a day in order to keep them fresh.
Drink Water
Now that the weather is getting colder, you may have already noticed that dry mouth has become more apparent. If you don’t have enough saliva in your mouth, that harmful bacteria that is responsible for decay and other issues will not be washed away. By drinking water, you can prevent this from occurring.
During the winter months, don’t forget to take extra steps to stay healthy. By following the tips listed above, you can ward off illnesses while you are straightening your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Navkiran Dhillon earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine from Boston University where she graduated with high honors, the top of her class, and on the Dean’s List. She is a member of numerous professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the Academy of General Dentistry. For more information on Invisalign or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (864) 877-3631.